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My gynecologist has had me on the highest available dose of replacement estrogen post-hysterectomy, but claims it does not raise the risk of breast cancer- is this true?

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I've read a lot of conflicting info online on the topic, but have yet to seek a second opinion from a doctor. I had a "full hysterectomy" (uterus, tubes, and ovaries were completely removed) 3.5 years ago at the age of 26. I was initially on a moderate dose of replacement estrogen for two years, but the previous prescribing doctor (who is also the one who performed the surgery) retired. I began seeing his colleague, and she was worried that being on such a low dose in relation to my age would result in osteoporosis. I have been on the higher dose for one year, but miss the emotional stability I experienced when on the lower dose. When I reminded the doctor that my mother died of ductal carcinoma at age 54 and I am subsequently concerned about already being at a higher risk of breast cancer, the doctor said that the studies linking breast cancer and RHT had been recently debunked. Is this true?

Hi miscortes, thanks for taking the time to reply- but I hope my post implied a level of education and research skills that wouldn't be satisfied by a simple link to ACA. I was hoping for detailed information that either dismisses or confirms my gynecologist's assertions.

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Hi ANonymous,
Unfortunately, the answer is we really don't know. There are testing and future studies on this subject being conducted but in reality science is constant. I am providing you this link to the American Cancer Society which documents "what we know" about breast cancer which you may find helpful. Good luck,
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-ri...
MissieDecember 30, 2012 - 6:55am

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